Method and apparatus for acoustically demixing aqueous solutions

Abstract

A method and apparatus for demixing an aqueous solution is provided. The aqueous solution has at least two aqueous phases. The method comprises applying acoustic energy to the aqueous solution. The apparatus comprises a mechanism for applying acoustic energy to the aqueous solution until the aqueous solution is demixed to clarity.

We claim: 
     
       1. A method for demixing an aqueous solution, the aqueous solution having at least two aqueous phases, the method comprising: providing an emulsified immiscible aqueous solution having at least two aqueous phases;   applying acoustic energy to the aqueous solution;   enhancing coalescence between droplets in the aqueous phases;   increasing the buoyancy of the droplets in the aqueous phases thereby enhancing the rate of demixing of the aqueous phases; and   separating each of the aqueous phases from each other.   
     
     
       2. The method of claim 1 wherein the acoustic energy applied to the aqueous solution is in a predetermined selected range of frequency and power. 
     
     
       3. The method of claim 2 wherein the acoustic energy applied to the aqueous solution has an intensity between approximately four (4) W/cm 2  and approximately six (6) W/cm 2 . 
     
     
       4. The method of claim 2 wherein the acoustic energy applied to the aqueous solution has an intensity of less than approximately four (4) W/cm 2 . 
     
     
       5. The method of claim 2 wherein the frequency of the acoustic energy is between approximately 1.2 MHz and approximately 1.8 MHz. 
     
     
       6. The method of claim 2 wherein the frequency of the acoustic energy is greater than approximately 1.8 MHz. 
     
     
       7. The method of claim 1 wherein the aqueous phases are at least approximately near equilibrium with each other before the acoustic energy has been applied. 
     
     
       8. The method of claim 1 wherein the aqueous phase solutions are demixed to clarity.